Bears Blog 10-01-15

CHICAGO (WLS) -- After another day of limited practice participation, Jay Cutler addressed the media. Typically an indication he'll play Sunday, but no surprise everyone remains non-commital about the Bears week 4 starter. "You guys are putting words in my mouth that I'm starting," Cutler said, "If I can get back, I can get back... we'll see how it goes." Some guys do heal faster than others, which is why John Fox refuses to put timelines on injuries- maintaining Cutler is day to day. Not even Offensive Coordinator Adam Gase knows who the starter is: " For me its just having a plan and waiting until Fox tells me who the quarterback is."

Obviously Cutler wants to be back, especially after watching the Offense stall out in Seattle. But a hamstring strain is tough. Just as Alshon Jeffery who continues to be limited in practice and non-commital about a nearing return. " I've been out there the last 2 days... just trying to get out there and make sure everything is good." Jeffery hasn't played since midway through week 1- somehow he still leads the team in receiving yards... but that's a topic for another blog. The Bears would love to have both Cutler and Jeffery back Sunday against an Oakland pass defense ranked 30th in the league.

But Jimmy Clausen is ready if needed. The Bears back-up sharing the practice reps saying he's preparing to start like he always does. Though he's confident in a better outcome than last week. Hard to imagine it could have gone worse than that second half... right? As Matt Forte said, "We have no where to go except up." Can't argue with that. Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio is preparing for Cutler, after today and barring a set back I would be stunned if #6 isn't behind center Sunday. The challenge remains protecting his blind side with Jermon Bushrod sidelined with a concussion. Kyle Long saying it is on the O-line to protect whichever quarterback starts- namely one coming back from an injury no one wants to be a topic beyond this week... trust me.